Laser Therapy has been growing in popularity in the recent years for it’s ability to reduce pain and inflammation. Hopefully, if you have been in to our office, you have seen information or had one of our doctors tell you about it. If you haven’t, check out our page about Laser Therapy here. However, recent research and studies have been finding different positive uses for laser technology in healthcare. A study in 2015 explored a new and exciting role for Laser Therapy in treating the brain. The study specifically looked at how Laser Therapy treatment can affect the brain of people with major depressive disorder (MDD). Although it is a small scale study, the method and science are sound and the results are promising.

The study tracked the Hamilton depression rating scale (HAM-D17) results of the subjects throughout the course of a 8-week double-blind, sham-controlled study. Each participant received a total of 6 treatments targeted directly over the forehead during the course of the first 3 weeks with a laser that is similar to the unit we have in our office. Monitoring the results of their HAM-D17s over the course of the study showed significant decreases across all subjects throughout 8 weeks. While those results are promising, there are of course many other aspects to consider when dealing with MDD treatment and recovery.

One of the most positive outcomes of the study is not only that depression levels were lowered, but that the subjects found the treatment very tolerable and safe compared to other options for care. Being noninvasive, without any major side effects, and potentially not requiring the need for long term administration are some major reasons that utilizing Laser Therapy on the brain is an innovative and exciting new opportunity in healthcare.